Nautilus International is an independent, influential, global trade union and professional organisation, committed to delivering high quality, cost-effective services to members, and welfare support to necessitous seafarers, their dependants and other maritime professionals.

Nautilus works with members, the maritime community, national governments and international agencies to create change, which improves the lives of maritime professionals. We give a voice to maritime professionals from the very beginning of their training, throughout their employment and into retirement.

In this section, you can find out about the Union's legal and welfare services to members. You can also find information about some of the issues members face and suggestions on what you can do about them.

Don't miss out on a Merchant Navy Medal

Time is running out if you want to put forward a candidate for this year's Merchant Navy Medal awards.

Nominations for the 2018 Merchant Navy Medal for Meritorious Service need to be submitted by Thursday 31 May.

The prestigious state award is made to those who have served at sea in the Merchant Navy or fishing fleets, normally for at least 20 years, and have made a significant contribution - some of which can be in a shore-based capacity.

Over the last two years the medals have been presented by The Princess Royal to men and women who have contributed towards areas such as maritime safety, improved efficiency, training, welfare, and saving life at sea.